Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Handguns Ruger Flattop 44 Special

I've always been a big fan of single actions for carrying in the woods or backpacking. The simplicity of the whole thing has always appealed to me for several reasons.

1. Safety when dehydrated and tired from many backpacking miles. If you have never been in this state of mind you would be surprised at the simple stupid things you do when fatigued and your body is pushing for fluids and minerals.

2. Simplicity. When in need cock and fire. When not needed nothing else to say really. No need for an empty chamber under the hammer with transfer bar system, no need to worry about hitting the cylinder latch, etc.
I have smaller hands and jumped on these flat tops due to their mid size grip frames. It is just a smidgeon smaller than standard frame size and overall fits my hand better.

This last one I picked up is a 44special. I wanted something a little lighter than my 357/9mm Flattop due to larger diameter holes. Yes when loaded bumps Weight back up but the barrel is a little lighter and weight shifted towards you slightly. Plus a larger chunk of projectile coming out of the end of the barrel.

So far it is very present shooting with 245 grain slow loads at about 750 ft/sec. would be plenty for trail use around here for general use in NC but I do have some 1000 ft/sec 255 grain loads that I'll be shooting soon. Odds are I'll use those for the trail most often.

Not sure why but this 44 special feels like an old friend already and I've only got 50 rounds through it.

Here are some pictures to enjoy.

My SS .44 Special. Had it for several years. The quality/finish is excellent.